Wednesday, December 30, 2015

I love peaches so I think this Peach Diva Cocktail from Little Black Dress Wines is one that I would enjoy. Plus, it looks super easy to prepare. A great cocktail for New Year's Eve or Girl's Night In parties for sure!

Saturday, December 26, 2015

How many of you are big fans of the hit TV show Always Sunny in Philadelphia? I admit, I don't watch the show but my husband never misses an episode! He's a big fan of the show! Well, if you've been waiting for season 10 to come out onto DVD...you're in-luck! Season 10 will be available for purchase starting on January 5th, 2016. Here's some additional information on the release.

For those of you who do watch this show...please feel free to leave us a comment or two about why you love the show and who's your favorite character?

Synopsis: Celebrate a decade of debauchery with Season Ten of TV’s most outrageously funny comedy. Join your favorite demented bar owners for a new round of misguided dreams and blundered schemes. This time around the gang tackles their most hilarious challenges yet, like besting the legendary beer drinking record of baseball's Wade Boggs and conquering the wacky world of online dating. Plus, Mac and Charlie join a cult, Psycho Pete returns from the loony bin and the gang struggles to keep their weirdness under wraps while competing on a TV game show.

Monday, December 21, 2015

Join us for the third annual national celebration of all things Kale. This grassroots movement is helping to promote kale, but more importantly, focus on healthy eating and nutrition education. And we want you to get involved!

So Why Should YOU Care About Kale?

* Kale continues to trend upward and has increased in sales over 200%
* Kale is now seen more often on restaurant menus and in grocery store aisles
* Kale is also now appearing in school lunches like the New York Public School System, as a staple item for kids to enjoy
* It's nutritional benefits can help make a difference in our country's health crisis
Kale is a versatile ingredient for recipes of all kinds

On October 7, retailers, bloggers, chefs, food influencers and other media members will be joining in on a digital conversation through the sharing of recipes, photos and posts, as well as a Twitter party, which had over a million impressions last year.

In conjunction to digital efforts, there will also be in-person events around the country and on-air interviews with the movement's founders:

Dr. Drew Ramsey, MD
Chef Jennifer Iserloh (Skinny Chef).

As the best-selling author of 50 Shade of Kale and Healthy Cheats and a classically trained chef, Jennifer is a leader in promoting diets of delicious, nutritious and easy to prepare meals to help promote healthy lifestyles. To schedule an interview or on-air appearance with Jennifer, please contact us directly.

And of course, a celebration of kale wouldn't be complete without recipes.

In a food processor, combine the kale leaves, basil leaves, and salt. Pulse 10 to 12 times, until the kale leaves are finely chopped. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil. Scrape down the sides of the processor. Add the walnuts and garlic and process again, then add the cheese and pulse to combine. Toss with your favorite pasta and serve immediately.

Breakfast: Many people start off the day in a meatless way and don’t even think twice. Breakfast is important for fueling the body with a combo of protein, carbs and nutrients to get you going. If you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a wonderful, flavorful breakfast that no one will realize is vegan, healthy, or eggless – try making these Blueberry Tofu Ricotta Pancakes!

Lunch: Lunch is a great time to incorporate nuts into your meal, to satisfy you until dinner. Pistachios are some of our favorite nuts to eat because studies show they reduce heart disease risk and lower blood pressure. They’re also lower in calories than many other nuts. One way we love consuming pistachios is in a Pistachio Chewy Bite. These snacks are the most delicious way to stave off hunger and the flavor combination of pistachios and cranberries is unique and satisfying.

Dinner: Now may be the time of day that abstaining from meat is the hardest because dinner is supposed to be a hearty and satisfying experience. There are an incredible amount of meat-free dinner ideas that you may not even realize you’re already incorporating into your diet like a bean and rice burrito, many dishes at a Thai, Ethiopian or Indian restaurant and more. The reason you don’t miss the meat with these choices is because when you incorporate beans, grains and veggies into your meal, you feel full and satisfied. There’s also a ton of fiber in these types of dishes, and fiber keeps your digestive system functioning so that’s always a bonus!

Try our recipe for Peanut Ginger Jackfruit Noodles for a super flavorful, satisfying dinner. There’s even protein in the sauce, so you can think of looking at every ingredient as a potential source of nutrients when going meatless!

About Spork Foods - L.A.-based sisters and celebrity chefs, Heather Goldberg and Jenny Engel of Spork Foods are vegan chefs that own a Los Angeles-based gourmet cooking school. The culinary duo are also cookbook authors and work with some of Hollywood’s elite including Emily and Zooey Deschanel, Kristen Bell, Dax Shepard, Kristin Bauer van Straten, and Alicia Silverstone.

About Pistachio Chewy Bites - With two main ingredients, Pistachio Chewy Bites provide healthy snack lovers the amazing benefits of pistachios and cranberries in a delicious and nutritious bite-size bar. Pistachio Chewy Bites are heart-healthy, 100% all natural, gluten and dairy free, low in sodium, GMO free, vegan and a great on-the-go protein snack. They also have no cholesterol, zero trans-fat and are a good source of dietary fiber. These nutrient-rich snack bars provide a great balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat for sustainable energy. With 7 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber and healthy fat, the individually wrapped bars are the perfect one stop shop.

Available in major grocery store chains across the country such as: Bristol Farms, Fairway, Shoprite, A&P, Roundy’s, HEB, Safeway, Ingles, Gelson’s, King Kullen, Earth Fare, Price Chopper, Wegmans, Save Mart, Lucky, Hy-Vee, Shop n’ Save, etc. They are also available online at Amazon.com and Puritan.com.

Saturday, December 12, 2015

Exercise is key not only for physical health, but emotional health as well. However, some people prefer to shed pounds without ever lifting a pound…that is, they would rather stick to a hardcore diet than ever hit the gym.

Joey Thurman, celebrity trainer to stars such as Terrence Howard, says, “I get so frustrated when people tell me that they ‘can’t’ work out. Some claim that they simply don’t have the time, while others say that they just built aren’t for it. I think that’s nonsense. Everyone’s body is made for exercise—and we all need to move our bodies in order to keep them healthy and fit.”

To those who would rather diet instead of exercise, Thurman says, “There is no denying that you can shed pounds quickly if you follow a strict diet. But you’re not going to have a toned, sexy body just from living on salad. You have to exercise if you want to look and feel your best.”

Here are Thurman’s best exercises for people who don’t exercise:

· Squats: “These are so simple and they require no equipment. Squats are awesome for your thighs, glutes, and calves. Position your knees so that they don’t extend past your toes, and then sit back as though you were sitting squarely into a chair. Don’t bend past your knees. Repeat 20 times.”
· Planks. “Again, these require no equipment and are awesome for your core. Lie belly-first on the floor. Flatten your elbows on the floor. Rise up on your toes and your bent arms. Hold for 30 seconds. As you become more experienced, you can hold yourself on your palms and your toes, and hold the pose for much longer."
· Crescent Moon: Lay flat on your back. Extend your legs and arms straight and hold them taut. Pin your core to your back and then rise up, holding your legs and arms in the air while you balance on your hollowed out core. “Keep your belly tight. You should have the shape of a crescent moon,” says Thurman. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
· Wall squats: Stand with your back flat against the wall. Keeping your knees straight in front of you, bend down with your back sliding down the wall. Hold this squatted position and then rise up. Repeat 30 times.
· Fire hydrants. Get on your hands and knees. “Lift your bent leg at a 90 degree angle (yes, the image of a dog using a fire hydrant might come to mind,” laughs Thurman, “Hold and release. Repeat 20 times on each side. Remember to keep your back straight and your belly tucked. No arching!”

About Joey Thurman: Joey Thurman is a health, fitness, nutrition expert and the creator of The Lifestyle Renovation, a website dedicated to helping people achieve their health and fitness goals. Joey was named the best trainer in Chicago by the Chicago Sun Times in 2015 and NEWBEAUTY.com's top 3 favorite celebrity trainers. He has appeared on CBS, WGN, FOX, ABC and WCIU sharing his insights as a celebrity fitness trainer, published author and nutrition expert. Joey’s work has been featured in publications such as U.S. News and World Report, NPR, People Magazine, Livestrong.com, BodyBuilding.com, Inspiyr, TimeOut Chicago, RedEye, American Global Traveler, CaliDiet, Chicago Sun Times, and Brazen Women.

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Between all of the holiday roasts, sides, fishes, cookies and pies, it’s easy to overlook preparing a delicious breakfast for your family and house guests. This holiday season, IMUSA’s recipe for a Chorizo Scrambled Egg Breakfast Taco has you covered. IMUSA, leader in Hispanic cookware, combines chorizo, lime juice, eggs and cheese (among other ingredients) to make an outstanding breakfast taco that your guests will remember. With this breakfast your holidays is sure to be great from the moment you wake up.

Mix sour cream, lime juice, and salt in a bowl and put aside. Char tortillas over gas flame or directly on electric burner until blackened in spots, turning with tongs. Place in IMUSA tortilla warmer or aluminum foil and set aside. In an IMUSA non-stick sauté pan add olive oil and bring to medium-high heat. Sweat onions for about one minute and add diced chorizo. Cook for 5-6 minutes until chorizo is browned.

Add half of the cilantro and all of the cooked chorizo to beaten eggs and mix. Bring eggs back to the IMUSA pan and cook on low heat, mixing from time to time. Place cooked eggs, cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes and remaining cilantro in separate bowls and lay them out throughout the table with the warm tortillas. Allow your guests to assemble their own breakfast tacos.

Saturday, December 5, 2015

How many of you are big fans of science fiction? Well, those of you who live sci-fi and are big fans of the hit TV show "The X-Files" will be pretty happy this holiday season with the new release of The X-Files Collector's set on December 8th, 2015. Here's some additional information about the set and it's release.

The truth is out there…and now it can be found in its entirety when Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment exposes the complete world of “The X-Files” on Blu-ray for the first time – just ahead of the event series premiere Sunday, January 24, 2016. “THE X-FILES” THE COLLECTOR’S SET – featuring a slot for the upcoming six-episode event series – releases on December 8, giving fans the chance to own a piece of television history and one of the year’s must-have giftset collections. Fans can also purchase each season individually on Blu-ray on December 8.

Since its inception in 1993, “The X-Files” has remained a worldwide phenomenon, garnering a loyal cult following, 16 Emmys® and five Golden Globes® Awards, including “Best Dramatic TV Series” during its nine-season run.

Now for the first time, all nine exhilarating, groundbreaking seasons of “THE X-FILES,” along with special features, can be yours to own on Blu-ray! Although they began as reluctant partners, FBI special agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully (Golden Globe®*** winners David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson) ultimately form a powerful bond as they struggle to unravel deadly conspiracies and solve paranormal mysteries.

“THE X-FILES” THE COLLECTOR’S SET features more than 23 hours of content across all nine seasons – perfect for catching up on the series before the new event series airs. Relive all the mythology, conspiracy theories with special features, including behind-the-scenes featurettes, and commentaries by executive producer Chris Carter (“Millennium,” “Harsh Realm”), R.W. Goodwin, Rob Bowman, Kim Manners, Frank Spotnitz, Robert Patrick and Rod Hardy. Fans can pre-order the collection and individual seasons at www.x-filesblu-ray.com.

TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT - Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (TCFHE) is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programing. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray™, Digital HD and VOD. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 20th Century Fox, a 21st Century Fox Company.

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Cranberry sauce is a classic when it comes to serving it at Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday meals. While many people think it's hard to prepare at home...it's really easy. Today's guest post recipe gives you a twist on this classic dish.

The recipe and photo is courtesy of: Pure Bar Founder Veronica Bosgraaf and can be found in her cookbook called Pure Food.

1. In a saucepan set over medium-low heat, combine the cranberries, orange juice, and maple syrup. Bring to a gentle boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have popped and the juices have reduced, about 25 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and let sit for 5 minutes.

2. To serve, pour the mixture into a serving dish and stir in the allspice and curry. Serve warm or chilled.

Friday, November 27, 2015

Freida Pinto Stars in DESERT DANCER – Arriving on DVD December 1st, 2015. Mark your calendars now...a hot new release just in-time for the holiday season and gift-giving!

Synopsis: Set against the backdrop of Iran’s volatile 2009 presidential election, this powerful film follows the incredible true story of renowned international dancer Afshin Ghaffarian. At a time when dancing is forbidden, Afshin (Reece Ritchie, Hercules) and some friends, including the beautiful Elaheh (Freida Pinto, Slumdog Millionaire) risk their lives to form an underground dance company. Inspired by banned online videos of timeless legends like Michael Jackson and Rudolf Nureyev, Afshin and Elaheh embrace their passion for dance – and for one another. With palpable tension, breathtaking choreography and spectacular cinematography, Desert Dancer is a story of extraordinary courage, love and the fulfillment of dreams.

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment - Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (TCFHE) is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programing. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray™, Digital HD and VOD. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 20th Century Fox, a 21st Century Fox Company.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Your home is your most valuable asset, so it's important to keep it in good condition. A well-maintained home makes a good first impression and increases your property value. Take a look at some simple exterior home improvement ideas that will enhance your home's appearance and boost curb appeal.

Front Door

By changing the look of your front door, you can create a stunning entrance to your home. If you have an old door, give it a fresh, new contemporary look with a bold paint color that compliments your home's existing materials. If you prefer a traditional style, install a beautiful wooden door in a rich wood stain like walnut or mahogany. Keep your new front door looking its best with regular cleaning to remove dirt and fingerprints and keep the door hardware polished.

Paint

If your home's exterior needs a face lift, give it a stylish update with new paint. Your home's siding and trim takes a beating from sun and rain, often resulting in chips, cracks and peeling paint. New paint and regular maintenance can quickly transform the look of your entire home. Before you paint, repair or replace any cracked or damaged siding, trim or shingles, then add a fresh new color that will give your home great style and curb appeal.

Shutters

Adding shutters to your windows is a great way to boost visual interest. Shutters add depth and character to any architectural style. Movable shutters can also help to control ventilation and light and add extra security to your home. Shutters come in a variety of sizes, styles and materials including wood, vinyl, aluminum and fiberglass. Synthetic materials and protective resins will give your shutters a durable, low-maintenance finish.

Outdoor Walkways

You can create a beautiful inviting entrance with a custom walkway in natural stone, brick, flagstone or concrete. Enhance the walkway with borders of shrubs, plants or colorful flowers that add visual interest and softness to hard surfaced materials. You can choose from native plants that conserve water or fragrant plants with wonderful aromas that welcome guests. Complete your walkway with pathway lighting will add safety, soft ambiance and beautiful curb appeal.

If your home is looking a little shabby or needs repairs, consider simple home improvements that can give your home updated style and beautiful curb appeal. To learn more now about home improvement ideas, contract a local contractor in your area.

Sunday, November 22, 2015

Breakfast is often referred to as the most important meal of the day and it's now also quickly becoming the most expensive. The avian flu is contributing to record-high egg prices, with increases of over 130 percent in parts of the country. Meanwhile, cereal has surged by 20 cents per pound, a significant rise that outpaces all grocery costs over the last five years.

Cereal and eggs are a big part of an American's diet. In fact, 90 percent of U.S. consumers buy cereal and eat approximately 250 eggs each every year. Unfortunately, that means these price hikes will take a big bite out of a family's already tight grocery budget.

To keep you and your family's favorite breakfast food on the table without scrambling up your finances, review these savvy grocery shopping tips.

1. Buy in bulk.
Both eggs and cereals are better buys in bulk, depending on how quickly your family consumes them. Parents can save an average of 60% on popular cereal brands like Frosted Flakes, while premium brands like Kashi fetch savings of 25% compared to grocery stores. For those incredible eggs, a 24-pack of organic eggs from Costco costs about $6.99, compared to $4 to $5 for a dozen organic eggs from traditional grocery stores.

2. Stack savings.
Don't settle for sales -- save even more when you stack manufacturer's coupons on top of store sales. For example, King Soopers is currently offering four boxes of Kellogg's or Post cereals for $8, the purchase of which will also score you a free gallon of milk. By searching Coupon Sherpa for Kellogg's coupons, I found a coupon for $1 off three boxes of Kellogg's cereals. Together, I'll pay $7 for four boxes of cereal and one gallon of milk, reducing my cereal cost to $1.75 per box.

3. Compare prices.
Savvy shoppers know to compare prices between grocers before buying cereal, eggs and other food staples. However, make sure you extend your comparison to drugstores, too. For example, Walgreens is currently offering Frosted Mini Wheats for $2.99 each or two for $5, compared to Walmart's price of $3.12 each. Drugstores often have sales on eggs and milk to get patrons through their doors, so keep your eyes peeled for these specials, too!

4. Mix brand names with generic.
The bright colors and flashy cartoon characters leaping from cereal box labels are targeted at children. What's more, top brands are positioned at a child's eye level on grocery shelves, making this the most dreaded aisle for parents! These factors contribute to high costs for brand-name cereal, so try store brands instead for up to 50% savings. To keep picky eaters from complaining, mix branded and generic cereals together and store cereal in well-sealed containers. After all, Fruity O's look identical to Fruit Loops without the packaging!

5. Don't be fooled by colors.
When it comes to nutritious food, the color white is increasingly linked to foods we shouldn't eat - bread, flour, sugar - and some consumers even extend the bias to eggs. However, there is absolutely no nutritional difference between brown and white eggs. A different breed of hen lays brown eggs, are larger and require more feed compared to hens laying white eggs. As a result, brown eggs often cost 25% more compared to white eggs, and consumers just assume the cost difference has to do with more nutritional benefits from earth-toned eggs.

6. Swap boxes for bags.
Bagged cereal can cost $0.40 less per ounce compared to boxed cereal. Cereals contained in bags are not typically name brand, so remember the trick mentioned earlier about storing cereal in easy-to-access jars so kids don't let advertising influence their taste buds. If you find the bagged cereal isn't as sweet, you can always add fresh fruit to give your kids the sugary jolt they love naturally.

7. Make something new.
To reduce the cost of your grocery expense, consider swapping eggs and cereal for other breakfast options. Peanut or almond butter toast with sliced bananas and orange juice will no doubt make your kiddos happy, and parents can feel good knowing their kids are getting good protein, potassium, fiber and Vitamin C. Oatmeal is another breakfast standby and can taste completely different with various mix-ins and be prepared the night before for quicker mornings. Check Pinterest for a plethora of quick and kid-friendly alternatives to your morning meal.

This is a guest post by: Andrea Woroch is a money-saving expert who transforms everyday consumers into savvy shoppers by sharing smart spending tips and personal finance advice. As a sought-after media source, she has been featured among such top news outlets as Good Morning America, Today, CNN, Dr. OZ, New York Times, MONEY Magazine, Consumer Reports, Forbes and many more. In addition, Andrea's stories have been published among leading publications and sites such as Yahoo!, AOL Daily Finance, CNN Money, Huffington Post, LearnVest and New York Daily News. Check out Andrea's demo reel or visit her website at AndreaWoroch.com

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment announced today the critically acclaimed film “He Named me Malala,” will be made available on all formats; Digital HD, VOD and DVD December 15th, 2015.

From the director of Waiting for ‘Superman’ and the Academy Award®-Winning An Inconvenient Truth comes this highly inspiring and deeply moving documentary about courage, survival, and empowerment. He Named Me Malala tells the remarkable true story of teenage Malala Yousafzai, who was attacked by Taliban gunmen in Pakistan for advocating for girls’ education. Rather than be silenced, Malala emerged as a global voice for the education rights of all children, and in 2014, she became the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize recipient. This intimate glimpse into the life of an extraordinary girl is sure to inspire your entire family!

The documentary offers an intimate look into Malala’s life both before and following the attack. The then 15-year-old (she turned 18 this past July) was singled out, along with her father, for advocating for girls’ education. The shooting sparked an outcry from supporters around the world. Malala miraculously survived and is now a leading campaigner for girls’ education globally as co-founder of the Malala Fund.

HE NAMED ME MALALA features Malala Yousafzai, Ziauddin Yousafzai, Toor Pekai Yousafzai, Khushal and Atal Yousafzai. The film was released by Fox Searchlight Pictures, in association with Image Nation Abu Dhabi and Participant Media, with National Geographic Channel. The film is produced by Walter Parkes, Laurie MacDonald and Davis Guggenheim. Executive producers are Mohamed Al Mubarak and Michael Garin from Image Nation Abu Dhabi, Jeff Skoll from Participant Media, and Shannon Dill. Inspired by the book I Am Malala.

* Information and photo is courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.

Thursday, November 12, 2015

What do school kids and retirees have in common during these dog days of summer? For many, it’s having lots of time and not knowing what to do with it.

“But that comparison begins to breakdown almost immediately, because in a few short weeks, kids go back to school, but retirees have an indefinite amount of time to contend with,” says financial advisor Jeff Bucher, president of Citizen Advisory Group, a firm that engages its community with education and charity efforts.

“Worse still for retirees, many don’t know if they can afford the time they have left, which may not be yielding a satisfying lifestyle. After all the technical details I review with clients and their finances, such as protecting and growing their money, I sometimes offer a bit of unexpected advice: consider your employment options.”

Many people who take his advice often do so more for overall happiness than money, he says. Work gives us structure, purpose and a social network. Bucher reviews many fun options that retirees often find appealing.

• Golf course: This is a popular option since so many retirees love golf. And, if you are a morning person, work at a golf course is perfectly suited for you. Some popular jobs available at a golf course for retirees include golf shop staff, ranger, starters and golf course maintenance.

• Retail: A smiling face and a pleasant disposition has earned many retirees positions as greeters at places like Wal-Mart, but there are other stores that may better fit your personality. That may include cosmetics at Macy’s or the shoe department at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Think about where you like to shop.

• Sporting venue: If you love sports, consider being an usher at a venue. Ushers assist fans to their seats and help answer any questions the fans may have. You might have to walk up and down steps, so if that’s difficult for you to do find out beforehand whether the job involves steps. The job may have perks, such as free tickets.

• Tour guide: A tour guide’s job is to introduce people to places that they are unfamiliar with, which may include wineries, museums and a city’s historical locations.

• Theme park / zoo: If you want to brag about your job to your grandkids, look into the local zoo or theme park. Some of the most popular jobs for retirees at these parks include ticket takers, working at a merchandise stand or helping assist guests at an information booth.

• Your current or former job. This one may throw you for a loop, but it could be perfect. You’ll likely maintain the same salary as the rest of your earning years; it’s something you already know and are good at; and, many people derived much satisfaction from their profession. You may find new freedom in knowing that this job is more optional than before, which may engender a sense of freedom and, perhaps, an outside-the-box mentality.

About Jeff Bucher: Jeff Bucher is president of Citizen Advisory Group and is an Investment Advisor Representative of AlphaStar Capital Management, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. He has a life and health insurance license with the state of Ohio. His membership affiliations include the exclusive Ed Slott's Master Elite IRA Advisor Group™, National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), the National Association of Fixed Annuities (NAFA) and the Forum 400. He has earned Top of the Table honors through the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT). Bucher is a former standout wrestler at The Ohio State University, where he earned an athletic scholarship and honed his leadership skills en route to earning four varsity letters.

Saturday, November 7, 2015

The holiday shopping season is in full swing as retailers announce Black Friday promotions early, in hopes of drumming up a bargain frenzy for this big sales event. Though many Americans scoff at stores for offering early access to these discounts on Thanksgiving, most consumers welcome doorbuster sales with open arms.

Whether you're a seasoned doorbuster shopper or planning your first attempt at Black Friday, there's more to this annual holiday sales event than what the stores let on. Read on for six surprising things you didn't know about Black Friday, plus a few tips to help you save money.

1. Black Friday doesn't offer the best deals of the season.
According to a recent survey conducted by FatWallet, over one-third of shoppers believe the best deals of the holiday season happen on Black Friday. While you can score a great price on an off-brand TV, toys are better priced during the first two weeks of December. Meanwhile, Free Shipping Day on Dec. 18 has deeper discounts on apparel, shoes and kitchen goods, according to Rather-Be-Shopping blogger Kyle James.

2. Some products are specifically made for Black Friday sales.
Stores like Walmart and Target advertise deep discounts on TVs and electronics, but some of these items are specifically manufactured to be sold for cheap on Black Friday. These products are of lower quality and may be missing key features. I learned this lesson the hard way - my husband and I splurged on a Smart HDTV during on Black Friday sale, only to find it was missing HDMI inputs, among other things.

3. Doorbuster discounts don't stop at the sale price.
Many shoppers believe sale prices are the lowest price they can receive for products, especially on Black Friday. However, many stores offer additional savings in the form of coupons, if you know where to find them. Stores like Belk and Michaels often include coupons for extra savings in their Black Friday ads. You can also redeem coupons digitally using the Coupon Sherpa mobile app, which aggregates top deals for Black Friday shopping.

4. Online prices fluctuate all day long.
While dynamic pricing isn't specific to Black Friday sales, it's especially frustrating for deal seekers hoping to snatch up top discounts. Dynamic pricing is the practice of changing prices on products throughout the day, week or year to meet competitor pricing. To avoid this, use a price-comparison tool like Invisible Hand, which alerts you when something you're looking at online is better priced elsewhere.

5. You're at risk for getting into a parking lot accident.
In a study conducted by Progressive Insurance, claims doubled on Black Friday between 2010 and 2011, with parking lot claims increasing by over one third. With up to 70 million people shopping on Black Friday, it's no wonder these accidents are so commonplace, especially when you factor in fatigue, dark mornings and limited parking spaces.

6. "Compare at" prices aren't what they seem.
Many stores compare Black Friday sale prices to the manufacturer's suggested retail price, or MSRP. However, stores typically offer products for less than MSRP, so the comparison is misleading. For example, Sears offered a Samsung 55" 1080P 120Hz Smart LED HDTV for a sale price of $599.99 last year, comparing it to the MSRP of $1,199.99. However, Sears never sold the unit for this price, and had most recently advertised the TV for $807.49.

Andrea Woroch is a money-saving expert who transforms everyday consumers into savvy shoppers by sharing smart spending tips and personal finance advice. As a sought-after media source, she has been featured among such top news outlets as Good Morning America, Today, CNN, Dr. OZ, New York Times, MONEY Magazine, Consumer Reports, Forbes and many more. In addition, Andrea's stories have been published among leading publications and sites such as Yahoo!, AOL Daily Finance, CNN Money, Huffington Post, LearnVest and New York Daily News. Check out Andrea's demo reel or visit her website at AndreaWoroch.com for more information about booking an interview or requesting an original written article. You can also follow her on Twitter or Facebook for daily money tips.

Add SPARKLING ICE Strawberry Watermelon, frozen strawberries, light rum and crushed ice in a blender. Blend until smooth and pour into glass. For additional spook, mix corn syrup and red food color together. Dip the rim of the glass into the red mixture and then turn upright to allow the mixture to drip. Garnish with strawberry.

Disclosure: You must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcohol. Please drink responsibly and ALWAYS use a designated driver.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Looking for a fruity and delicious sangria recipe? One that is super easy to make? If so, this sangria recipe from Little Black Dress wines is the answer! You can learn more about their delicious wines by visiting their website. Plus, while you are there you can pick up some additional tasty cocktail recipes!

Combine wine, apples, peach, berries in a pitcher. Add simple syrup to taste. Refrigerate or at least 30 minutes. Serve over ice in a red wine glass and garnish with basil and top with a few splashes of club soda if desired.

Disclosure: You must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcohol. Please drink responsibly.

Friday, October 23, 2015

October is officially "Breast Cancer Awareness" month and the great folks over at Little Black Dress wines sent over two delicious looking cocktail recipes for me to share with my readers. You can learn more about Little Black Dress wines by visiting their website + you can find additional cocktail recipes while you are there.

Monday, October 19, 2015

Get Lost and Found in never-before-seen featurettes featuring Cara Delevingne and Nat Wolff on Blu-ray™ and DVD October 20th, 2015.

After the phenomenal success of The Fault in Our Stars, author John Green returns with another heart-warming tale in PAPER TOWNS, available on Blu-ray™ and DVD October 20. Join rising stars Cara Delevingne and Nat Wolff in the breakout performances of their careers as they go on an epic journey of love and adventure. For a limited time only, get your Paper Towns fan pack Blu-ray with collectible packaging including shareable sticky notes of inspirational quotes from the film and a U.S. map!

Adapted from the bestselling novel by John Green, PAPER TOWNS is a coming-of-age story centering on Quentin, a high school senior who has been in love with his enigmatic neighbor Margo since childhood. After taking him on an all-night adventure through their hometown, Margo suddenly disappears--leaving behind cryptic clues for Quentin to decipher. The search leads Quentin and his quick-witted friends on an exhilarating adventure that is equal parts hilarious and moving. Ultimately, to track down Margo, Q must find a deeper understanding of friendship--and true love.

The PAPER TOWNS Blu-ray comes with nearly an hour of deleted scenes from Q and Margo’s journey, commentary from the director and Green, and exclusive behind-the-scenes featurettes. Watch a never-before-seen gag reel and learn more about the making of the film from the actors, filmmakers and Green in a three-part documentary. Take a road trip with the author and cast, watch the stars engage him in lightning round interviews and see how much fun they all have when the cameras aren’t rolling!

TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT - Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (TCFHE) is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programing. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray™, Digital HD and VOD. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 20th Century Fox, a 21st Century Fox Company.

Thursday, October 15, 2015

It's hard to believe but Halloween is less than 2 weeks away. Already this season we've been to one party and have invites to three more. We love getting together with friends during the Autumn season and just having some spooky fun!

Sunday, October 11, 2015

National Women's Health and Fitness Day, the nation's largest health and fitness awareness campaign promoting the importance of regular physical activity among females of all ages. Approximately 75,000 women are expected to participate in the numerous events and activities held across the country. While this one-day event is a great way to get people active and promote healthy living, tight budgets often prevent Americans from making fitness a part of their everyday lives.

9 Frugal Fitness Tips for Fall

1. Enjoy the outdoors.
You really don't have to spend much money when it comes to getting healthy and fit. Just strap on your sneakers and head outside for a brisk walk, jog, run or hike. Not convinced that's enough? A study published in the journal PLoS Medicine showed that adding 150 minutes of brisk walking each week, or 22 minutes a day, can add over three years to your lifespan! Keep your walk exciting by switching up the scenery. Head to a nearby park or even downtown. When the weather cools down, you can take laps around a nearby indoor mall at no cost.

2. Set up a gym at home.
A recent study showed that people are more likely to workout when they do it at home. While that's motivating enough, it's also way cheaper to set up shop in your living room or bedroom. Though an at-home gym costs more upfront, you'll end up saving money in the long run. Consider this: the average gym membership runs $58 per month. After five years, you're looking at spending nearly $3,500 to get your sweat on. Head over to stores like Walmart or Dick's Sporting Goods to pick up inexpensive dumbbells, a balance ball and resistance bands to get started. For cardio equipment like a treadmill, search local ads to find used options in your area for less.

3. Repurpose household items for weights.
You don't need fancy barbells or free weights to burn calories. Get creative and tone muscles with common goods in your home like water bottles, soup cans, detergent or oversized-bags of dog food. You can use these items for arm moves like bicep curls and overhead shoulder press, or hold those heavier items when squatting or lunging to build muscle faster. Review this list of 17 items that work just as good as weights for more ideas.

4. Use your own weight.
Though gear and equipment can enhance your routine, all you need is your own bodyweight to get a good sweat on. Planks, squats, lunges, burpees, push ups and mountain climbers are hard enough without added weight and such plyometric moves scorch calories and blast fat fast. Get free guides online from favorite fitness magazines or bloggers who post workouts and show you how to keep such moves challenging.

5. Stream videos for free.
For those who prefer to take classes, you can stream workout videos online that offer the same feel as if you're in a hip hop or kickbox session at your local gym. Check out The Daily Hiit or subscribe to a YouTube channel that features preferred workout styles. From yoga to dance to high-intensity training, you can find daily and weekly workouts online for free or far less than you would pay for a health club membership. If you aren't sure where to look on Youtube, check out Mashable's roundup of top free fitness channels.

6. Max out gym and studio trials.
If you're the type of person who is more motivated to workout at a health facility, you can still find ways to save. For instance, taking advantage of complimentary or super cheap trials at the various gyms and speciality fitness studios in your area will get you several months of free workouts. Such trials may include a free three or seven-day pass, or a deep discount on one-month use. If you decide to sign up somewhere, negotiate your membership first. Ask the sales associate to waive the sign-up fee, throw in the first month free or add a few more personal training sessions to sweeten the deal.

7. Look for deals online.
Before you sign a contract or buy a pass, look for deals online to save on your fitness membership. Deal sites like Coupon Sherpa offer sporting goods coupons and free passes for health clubs including 24 Hour Fitness, while daily deal sites like Groupon and LivingSocial provide deep discounts of up to 70-percent on local memberships and personal training. You should also check a studio or gym's social media page where there may be new-member deals hiding.

8. Find free workouts in your area.
Ask local fitness retailers or organizations if they offer any complimentary workouts. For instance, Athleta offers free Barre, CrossFit and yoga and Lululemon provides complimentary yoga on Sundays. Some even organize run groups at no charge. Beyond these stores, your daily newspaper is a great resource for finding freebies, including complimentary or discounted fitness classes so search before you pay at a pricey gym!

9. Barter, volunteer or teach.
You can get a free membership to a gym, Pilates or yoga studio by offering your professional services as a trade like website design, marketing or bookkeeping. While this usually works best for a small, locally run club and studio, you can offer to volunteer or work just one night a week helping check members in or cleaning up in the evenings in exchange for a complimentary membership. Otherwise, consider teaching your favorite class just once a week or fill in as a sub to get free access the rest of the time.

Andrea Woroch is a money-saving expert who transforms everyday consumers into savvy shoppers by sharing smart spending tips and personal finance advice. As a sought-after media source, she has been featured among such top news outlets as Good Morning America, Today, CNN, Dr. OZ, New York Times, MONEY Magazine, Consumer Reports, Forbes and many more. In addition, Andrea's stories have been published among leading publications and sites such as Yahoo!, AOL Daily Finance, CNN Money, Huffington Post, LearnVest and New York Daily News. You can visit her website at AndreaWoroch.com for more information.

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

The kids are back to school and now the germs seem to be circulating once again. People are coughing, sneezing, having runny noses and a whole host of things are already going around. While I love the autumn season...I really hate the colds, allergies, flu and other things that seem to go around.

Today I am sharing with you a guest post by Dr. Christopher Hobbs Ph.D., L.Ac, A.H.G. from Rainbow Light. He offers his expert opinion on 6 immunity-boosting herbs that we all need to be taking to help boost our immune systems and help protect us from all of those germs!

6 Immunity-Boosting Herbs for Fall

* Echinacea - Echinacea is a popular herb that has been identified to boost immunity. Combined with goldenseal, another herb, or enjoyed alone as tea, this member of the daisy family has been found to prevent and treat upper respiratory tract infections as well as the common cold.

* Ginseng - This herb has many varieties ideal for boosting immunity and overall health. Its main active component, ginsenosides, has been proven to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Clinical research studies have demonstrated that it may improve immune and psychological functions as well as conditions related to diabetes.

* Garlic - This spice has had a long history of medicinal value. Studies have shown that garlic promotes overall immune health, that it is active against specific bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, and that it may bolster the ability of the respiratory tract to defend against viral infection. What’s better? It’s also a great tasting spice to use while you cook!

* Ginger - This herb has been shown to reduce inflammation, cardiovascular conditions, blood clots and cholesterol. Also a great ingredient to help aid digestion, we include ginger into many of our Rainbow Light products, such as the Women’s One and prenatal line of products, to help those with a frequent upset stomach.

* Turmeric- This spice contains curcumin, which has notable antioxidant properties. It also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and stomach soothing benefits. It reduces inflammation by stimulating the adrenal glands to increase the hormone that lessens inflammation. It is also used against headaches, bronchitis, colds, fever and menstrual problems.

* Spirulina – worth a discussion, as this natural ingredient is often misrepresented as an herb. Although technically a marine organism, this ingredient is a powerhouse of immunity. Amino acids make up 62 percent of spirulina, making it a complete protein. It's one of the few known plant sources of vitamin B12 and it's full of amino acids, enzymes, and probiotics that help to enhance your immune system and digestive health. It’s a key ingredient in our Rainbow Light products – that’s how much we love it!

Dr. Christopher Hobbs, Ph.D., L.Ac., Director of Herbal Science at Rainbow Light: Dr. Christopher Hobbs, is an internationally renowned herbalist, licensed acupuncturist and botanist, has been formulating market leading natural supplements exclusively for Rainbow Light® since 1985. With more than 35 years of clinical experience in herbal medicine, Hobbs has authored 25 books, including Herbal Remedies for Dummies and Women’s Herbs, Women’s Health. He shares his knowledge of herbal medicine with consumers and educators all over the world through lectures, and utilized his expertise in this field to found the Institute for Natural Products Research. He also serves as a consultant to the herb industry.

Saturday, October 3, 2015

The only way to lose weight is through hard work, eating right, and lots of exercise. Well, sort of, says Joey Thurman, model, nutrition expert, and celebrity fitness trainer.

“One of the easiest ways to start living a healthier lifestyle isn’t by hitting the gym. It’s by hitting the snooze button,” he says, “Nothing wrecks your appetite and your willpower like being tired and cranky, yet most people aren’t getting the 7-9 hours of sleep a night that an adult requires.”

Thurman explains that a lack of sleep negatively impacts two of the body’s hormones that control appetite: ghrehlin and leptin. He says, “When you don’t get enough sleep, your leptin levels go down, which can be very dangerous for your waistline, as leptin works to suppress appetite. In turn, your ghrelin levels go up, and that could mean your appetite will also increase.”

What are Thurman’s no-fail ways to get more sleep?

“Exercise first thing in the morning, not right before bed,” he says, “And, avoid alcohol and food 2 hours before sleeping. Instead, sip some water or herbal non-caffeinated tea. Spritz your pillow with lavender, which is shown to help promote rest. And, avoid TV and screen time: Instead, read, meditate, or take a warm bath.”

About Joey Thurman: Joey Thurman is a health, fitness, nutrition expert and the creator of The Lifestyle Renovation, a website dedicated to helping people achieve their health and fitness goals. Joey was named the best trainer in Chicago by the Chicago Sun Times in 2015. He has appeared on CBS, WGN, FOX, ABC and WCIU sharing his insights as a celebrity fitness trainer, published author and nutrition expert. Joey’s work has been featured in publications such as U.S. News and World Report, People Magazine, Livestrong.com, BodyBuilding.com, Inspiyr, TimeOut Chicago, RedEye, American Global Traveler, CaliDiet, Chicago Sun Times, and Brazen Women. Joey is a fashion model represented by Chosen Model Management where he works with brands including Neiman Marcus, Abercrombie, Jockey, Kohl's, and Carson Pirie Scott. He has also appeared on the covers of Healthy for Men and TimeOut Chicago. Joey is a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), a Fitness Nutrition Specialist (FNS), a Certified Corporate Nutrition Professional (CCNP) and a FITchef. For more information, please visit www.thelifestylerenovation.com and follow Joey on Instagram and Twitter at @JoeyThurmanFit.

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

When I think of the Fall season I think of the leaves changing colors, the crisp cooler air, fresh apples & pumpkins from the local orchard and of course...Halloween. Fall is a great season to get together with friends & family and just enjoy each other's company.

Today I am sharing with all of you a delicious cocktail recipe from the great folks over at Nielsen-Massey. Looking for other recipes for the Fall and upcoming holiday season? If so, head on over to their website and check out their extensive recipe collection. The following recipe makes 1 martini.

In a small saucepan, add juice, vanilla extract, cloves and cinnamon sticks; stir to combine. Cook over medium heat until juice is reduced by half. Carefully add sugars, cook and stir until sugars are melted; remove from heat. Completely cool and strain before use. Refrigerate unused syrup in an airtight container. Apple Pie Syrup is also a great addition to a hot mug of apple cider.

Saturday, September 26, 2015

I love just about every movie that I've seen actor Jason Statham in. Seriously...he is one HOT looking and VERY talented actor. He can pull off all kinds of different roles but my favorite are when he is playing an action-packed role. He has a new DVD release coming out and I am really looking forward to seeing it because I want to see how he does in a comedic role. Here is some information about that upcoming release.

Queen of Comedy Melissa McCarthy “in her funniest movie yet” (Leonard Maltin, LeonardMaltin.com) embarks on the mission of a lifetime as secret agent Susan Cooper in SPY. The September 29th Blu-ray release will include two versions of the film - Theatrical and never-before-seen Unrated Cut. The DVD will feature the Theatrical version. Both the Theatrical version and Unrated Cut of Spy will also be available on Digital HD September 4th. The global ensemble cast features Jason Statham, Jude Law and Rose Byrne who deliver hysterical performances in this summer blockbuster hit that totaled over $100 million in the domestic box office.[1] The movie was adored by critics who gave it an astounding 95% fresh rating on RottenTomatoes.com.

McCarthy is armed and hilarious in this “outrageously entertaining” (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone) comedy hit from director Paul Feig (The Heat, Bridesmaids). Deskbound CIA analyst Susan Cooper (McCarthy) is about to become the world’s newest — and unlikeliest — secret weapon. When her partner (Law) falls off the grid and another top agent (Statham) is compromised, Susan volunteers to go deep undercover and bring down a deadly arms dealer. Loaded with wise-cracking action and adventure, SPY is a mission impossible to resist!

Unlike Susan’s absurd yet effective secret agent gadgets, the SPY Unrated Blu-ray™ can barely conceal its massive amounts of bonus features, including two gag reels, fifteen alternate scenes and an all-new Unrated Cut with an extra 10 minutes! With more than two hours of never-before-seen footage, fans of the film will be able to join the fun on set as the cast cracks up while doing Feig’s bidding, learn just how handsy the world of espionage can get for McCarthy, and see just how all those bats made it into the CIA Headquarters and onto Susan’s desserts! And don’t forget to check out the 15 classified alternate scenes and three redacted scenes, featuring Jason Statham as you’ve never seen him and outrageous performances by the rest of the cast, including Miranda Hart, Allison Janney, Bobby Cannavale, Peter Serafinowicz, and 50 Cent. Fans can also join the filmmakers, including Feig and producer Jessie Henderson, as they talk about how the summer’s funniest film came to life while you watch it.

TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT: Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (TCFHE) is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programming. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray™, Digital HD and VOD.Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 20th Century Fox, a 21st Century Fox Company.

Conventional oven - preheat oven to 400⁰ F; Convection oven - preheat oven to 375⁰ F. Sauté raw shrimp, garlic, and scallions in the olive oil for about 1 minute, or until the shrimp turn pink. Using a slotted spoon, remove the shrimp, scallion/garlic mixture and set the seasoned olive oil to the side. Spread the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese onto the pizza crust. Spread the shrimp and scallion/garlic mixture on top of pizza evenly.

(Optional) Evenly drizzle seasoned olive oil over the top.

Place topped pizza into the oven on a pan (Tip: Place directly on rack for a crispy crust). Note: Toaster ovens are ideal for Kontos Foods Pizza Parlor Crusts! Conventional oven - Bake for 6-8 minutes; Convection oven - Bake for 5-6 minutes. Remove from oven with a baking sheet or pizza spatula. Top with quartered cherry tomatoes and chives or dill. Let cool for 1-2 minutes. Slice into 4-6 slices.

Note: Oven baking times can vary. Flatbread pizza is ready when the cheese is melted completely and edges are medium brown, to liking.

“This new spin on a classic pizza will make dad feel extra special while indulging on one of his favorite foods,” said Steve Kontos, vice president and owner of Kontos Foods. “And, as an added bonus, this personal pizza is ready to eat in less than 10 minutes, giving families more time to spend enjoying it together.”

Kontos 7-inch Pizza Parlor Crusts comes five to a pack. Kontos sells its products to retailers and foodservice establishments across North America and around the world. Find Kontos Foods on Twitter @KontosFoods, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Kontosfoods and on Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/kontosfoods/.

Friday, September 18, 2015

Nothing says back-to-school like a good cup of coffee… Currently the largest family-owned and operated coffee company in the U.S., Community Coffee Company offers high-quality blends featuring 100% select Arabica coffee beans in a variety of yummy flavors. Available in premium ground & whole bean, as well as single-serve k-cups, this coffee is not just great for sipping – it’s an amazing ingredient to cook with! Check out this recipe for French Roast Chocolate Pudding Cakes. This guest post recipe makes 24 servings.

Transfer batter to the cupcake pans, filling them ¾ full. In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup of cocoa and ¼ cup of brown sugar together. Sprinkle a tablespoon over each cake and place pans in the oven to bake them for 20 minutes. The cake’s edges should be crisp, but the middle should be very soft - similar to pudding. Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with vanilla ice cream as a side garnish.

Monday, September 14, 2015

Hosting a get to-gether or end of summer party? If so, you can kick it off with some refreshing Sparkling Cherry beverages like the ones shown below. They look delicious and are courtesy of Sparkling ICE.

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Stars like Dame Helen Mirren and Demi Moore seem to defy aging. Is it possible for the average American to maintain a smooth face and lustrous tresses even as time marches on? Model, celebrity trainer and nutrition expert Joey Thurman says it is, provided you follow an age-defying diet and fitness plan.

“The food you put inside your body is going to reflect on your outside appearance, and I don’t just mean as far as your waistline,” says Thurman. “There are some foods which can actually age you faster than others, leaving you looking tired, bloated, and years older than you actually are. Thankfully, there are also plenty of foods which can help improve cell repair and keep you looking as young as you feel.”

Here are Thurman’s top five tips to help you age gracefully:

1) Eat healthy fats. “People tend to think that fat is the enemy,” says Thurman. “Yet that just isn’t true. There are bad fats such as lard and butter which are dangerous for your waistline and your heart health, but there are also healthy fats such as those found in olive oil and avocado. Not only do they taste great, but they have properties which can help to keep you looking young and feeling great.”

2) Hydration is key. “Your body needs water in order to perform even the most basic functions. It also needs water to help it stay looking young,” says the trainer, “Work more water into your diet by making infused waters at home with watermelon and other summer fruits.”

3) Eat guava. “Guava is a very trendy fruit right now in Hollywood,” says Thurman. “It is very high in Vitamin C which is an important component of any anti-aging diet. Not to mention, it just tastes great!”

4) Reach for sweet potatoes. “Sweet potatoes have been called the perfect food because they are low in calories but still high in fiber. They are packed with vitamins and minerals, and they can assist in cell repair. Bake or steam them, and then add some cinnamon. Or you can mash them and add a little garlic. No butter or sugar needed!”

5) Omega Fatty Acids. “Omega Fatty Acids are a key part of any anti-aging diet, not to mention any healthy lifestyle. You can get them from things like chia seeds or flax seeds, or foods like whole grains. You can also take supplements to help boost your intake.”

About Joey Thurman: Joey Thurman is a health, fitness, nutrition expert and the creator of The Lifestyle Renovation, a website dedicated to helping people achieve their health and fitness goals. Joey was named the best trainer in Chicago by the Chicago Sun Times in 2015. He has appeared on CBS, WGN, FOX, ABC and WCIU sharing his insights as a celebrity fitness trainer, published author and nutrition expert. Joey’s work has been featured in publications such as U.S. News and World Report, People Magazine, Livestrong.com, BodyBuilding.com, Inspiyr, TimeOut Chicago, RedEye, American Global Traveler, CaliDiet, Chicago Sun Times, and Brazen Women. Joey is a fashion model represented by Chosen Model Management where he works with brands including Neiman Marcus, Abercrombie, Jockey, Kohl's, and Carson Pirie Scott. He has also appeared on the covers of Healthy for Men and TimeOut Chicago. Joey is a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), a Fitness Nutrition Specialist (FNS), a Certified Corporate Nutrition Professional (CCNP) and a FITchef. For more information, please visit www.thelifestylerenovation.com and follow Joey on Instagram and Twitter at @JoeyThurmanFit.

Monday, September 7, 2015

Are You Misguided In Your Headache Treatment? You May Be Missing The Root Of The Problem, Doctor Says

It’s human nature to want to take the shortest route to ending debilitating pain, and that’s part of why the pharmaceutical industry makes its hundreds of billions of dollars each year, says Dr. Fred Abeles.

“Just like we’re all tempted to reach for that sweet, salty or fatty snack when we’re hungry, many of us want to treat our chronic headaches with a quick fix by popping a pill,” says Dr. Abeles, author of the book “Break Away: The New Method for Treating Chronic Headaches, Migraines and TMJ Without Medication” (www.FredAbeles.com).

“While it’s understandable, pills are often another example of the easy path being a temporary one. Just like a candy bar ensures hunger will come raging back sooner than later, so too does pain medication tend to guarantee a future date with pain.”

Many headache sufferers may be under the mistaken impression that their headache is the result of nerves, but that’s wrong in most cases, he says. Most pain originates in muscle and connective tissues, he says.

Dr. Abeles reviews ways to best navigate the problem of painful and persistent headaches.

• Priority No. 1: avoid misdiagnosis. Doctors are experts who spend many years in college, training and helping others. Patients figure that surely they know best. But that’s not 100 percent true. A real estate agent can’t make you happy without your input. A financial advisor cannot meet your goals unless you communicate your goals and money situation effectively. The same is true for doctors, who are busy in today’s healthcare system and may be misled by patients, who tend to be flustered and potentially vague about their symptoms. In other words, patients need to be their own top advocate for their own health, and that means doing one’s due diligence in paying close attention to symptoms, communicating effectively to healthcare providers and considering multiple causes. A simple pain-relieving prescription is often not a lasting solution.

• Don’t just treat your symptoms; get to the root cause. As mentioned, pain-relief drugs are like candy bars for hunger – they only kick the problem down the road temporarily. The real culprit for chronic headaches usually includes inflammation, muscles of the head and neck, forward head posture, cervical alignment and its effect on the cranial nerves and vertebral artery.

And, for millions of sufferers, the cause of headaches is a misaligned bite. This includes the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. This is located at the front of the ear where the temporal bone meets the lower jaw on the side of the head.

• Your answer may be found in a painless, non-pharmaceutical treatment. Headaches have a variety of causes, from lifestyle choices to chemical activity to a combination of reasons. Millions overlook the symptoms of TMJ, which include a clicking or popping jaw, a bite that feels off, snoring, pain in the jaw/jowl areas and a forward head posture. If you have any of these symptoms, there is a silver lining to your problem, because there are multiple options that are free of pain and do not require altering your body chemistry with pharmaceutical drugs. A few bite adjustments, for example, can dramatically improve the alignment of your lower jaw, resulting in happy, calm muscles that don’t create pain. Physical therapy may include one or more of the following: ultra-sound, cold laser, NuCalm, trigger point muscle relaxation, Cefaly and more.

About Dr. Fred Abeles - Dr. Fred Abeles is known as one of the most sought after TMJ experts in the United States (www.FredAbeles.com). He’s famous for getting results where all other have failed and getting those results without the use of surgery, needles or drugs. He is author of the new book “Break Away: The New Method for Treating Chronic Headaches, Migraines and TMJ Without Medication.” Dr. Abeles is the Clinical Instructor and Regional Director for the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies – one of the most prestigious post-graduate teaching centers in the world today. Dr. Abeles has been featured on NBC and CBS, consults with leading dental manufacturers on the development of new dental products, been on the cover of the profession’s biggest magazines and instructed dentists throughout the United States and Canada on state-of-the-art techniques for treating headaches and temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

Friday, September 4, 2015

You might think that only the Gwyneth Paltrows and Beyonces of the world can afford to eat clean. Not so, says celebrity trainer, model, and nutrition expert, Joey Thurman.

“People of all financial backgrounds can eat clean,” Thurman insists, “Yes, healthy eating comes much easier if you are wealthy, but it is not something that only rich people can enjoy. In fact, preparing healthy, whole meals at home can actually save you money in the long run.”

Here are Thurman’s top tips for how to eat clean on a budget:

1. Shop at a farmer’s market or join a CSA (community supported agriculture). “A CSA will deliver fresh fruits and veggies to your door, all grown by local farmers. Not only will you be eating clean, but you will be supporting farmers in your own community,” says Thurman, “If you think you can’t manage to eat all that delicious produce on your own, you can share the costs of CSA membership with your friends and split up the bounty.”

2. Grow what you can. “Stop spending five dollars on basil every time you go to the grocery,” says Thurman, “It is easy to grow your own herbs, even if you live in an apartment in the city. The cost of seeds is negligible, and with just a little sunshine and water, you can have fresh herbs to spruce up your meals whenever you desire.”

3. Go used. “Craigslist is awesome when it comes to finding gently used kitchen tools,” says Thurman. “Get a secondhand juicer or a blender to make fruit smoothies for breakfast. You can also get handy items like knife sets, cutting boards and more.”

4. Do what you can. “Not everything that passes through your lips has to be organic,” says Thurman. “If you can’t afford organic everything, then get to know the ‘Dirty Dozen’ and simply buy organic when it comes to those items. Remember, perfection isn’t the goal. It’s all about doing your best and being mindful of what you eat.”

5. Stock up on frozen veggies. “Frozen vegetables are great,” says Thurman, “Many people wrongly think that these items don’t have as many nutrients as fresh veggies, but this just isn’t true. Vegetables are frozen at the peak of their freshness, and most of their nutrients stay intact. So don’t be afraid to buy frozen produce whenever it is on sale. Then you can easily defrost and add to your dinner with little muss and fuss…all for less than a run to a McDonald’s drive-thru!”

About Joey Thurman: Joey Thurman is a health, fitness, nutrition expert and the creator of The Lifestyle Renovation, a website dedicated to helping people achieve their health and fitness goals. Joey was named the best trainer in Chicago by the Chicago Sun Times in 2015. He has appeared on CBS, WGN, FOX, ABC and WCIU sharing his insights as a celebrity fitness trainer, published author and nutrition expert. Joey’s work has been featured in publications such as U.S. News and World Report, People Magazine, Livestrong.com, BodyBuilding.com, Inspiyr, TimeOut Chicago, RedEye, American Global Traveler, CaliDiet, Chicago Sun Times, and Brazen Women. Joey is a fashion model represented by Chosen Model Management where he works with brands including Neiman Marcus, Abercrombie, Jockey, Kohl's, and Carson Pirie Scott. He has also appeared on the covers of Healthy for Men and TimeOut Chicago. Joey is a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), a Fitness Nutrition Specialist (FNS), a Certified Corporate Nutrition Professional (CCNP) and a FITchef. For more information, please visit www.thelifestylerenovation.com and follow Joey on Instagram and Twitter at @JoeyThurmanFit.

Monday, August 31, 2015

How many of you are fans of the "LOST IN SPACE" TV and movie franchise? Well guess what? In honor of the Lost in Space 50th anniversary the collection is being released on blu-ray on September 15th, 2015. Here is some information about that DVD release.

Danger, Will Robinson! Danger! Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment pays tribute to one of the most iconic television series of all-time as “Lost in Space” – The Complete Series arrives on Blu-ray for the first time ever on September 15. Running from 1965-1968, this collection allows fans to bring home Irwin Allen’s intergalactic family saga that earned an enormous following of devoted fans over the years. Set in the space age future of 1997, follow the heart-racing, cliff-hanging adventures of John Robinson™ and his family aboard the Jupiter 2™, along with Robot B-9™ and the delightfully devious Dr. Zachary Smith™.

Produced with Space Productions, Inc. and Synthesis Entertainment, this massive 18-disc set contains all 83 episodes remastered in high definition, and over seven hours of exciting extras with recently discovered content you won’t find anywhere else in the galaxy. It’s out-of-this-world fun for everyone! Highlights include new commentaries on classic episodes with the original cast, 50th anniversary interviews with the original series cast and hours of archive footage offering incredible and unprecedented access into Irwin Allen’s personal archives. In addition, the Blu-ray includes an exclusive cast performance of Bill Mumy’s unproduced 1980 epilogue script, featuring Mumy, Angela Cartwright, Marta Kristen, Mark Goddard and more!

TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT - Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programing. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray™ and Digital HD™. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 21st Century Fox.